Stadler awarded major contract

Train manufacturer Stadler Rail will deliver 52 trains to the Bern transport company BLS, which is taking out an option for a further order of trains.

Image Credit: BLS

BLS will purchase 52 latest-generation Flirt trains to replace older train models, according to a Stadlerstatement.

“We are particularly pleased to be able to deliver Swiss trains from Thurgau to BLS for this contract,” said Peter Spuhler, president of the board of directors of the train manufacturer from the St.GallenBodenseeArea.

Stadler will create a full-scale model of the new train in its Bussnang factory, which will be used by BLS and Stadler to customize the design to the needs of the Bern transport company, such as boarding area fittings, seat upholstery and table size.

Stadler expects to start building the first railcar bodies in early 2019, and the trains will be put into operation between 2021 and 2025.

“We were convinced by Stadler’s offer for the largest train acquisition in the history of BLS,” said Bernard Guillelmon, CEO of BLS.

“We are pleased to be developing the new trains with Stadler, and look forward to offering our passengers an even more comfortable and reliable means of transport to their destinations in the future.”